10 Tips to Increase Fuel Efficiency

With petrol and diesel prices rising, van drivers have been given advice on how to change the way they drive to make fuel go further.

Fuel prices have been on the rise for four months with diesel exceeding £1.60 per litre, and petrol averaging at £1.57 per litre.

Motoring experts from LeaseVan have offered advice on how to conserve expensive petrol and diesel by driving more economically.

They suggest limiting weight in the vehicle, accelerating gently and maintaining vans regularly.

Driving at a slower limit can also save fuel as speeds of 70mph use up to 15% more fuel than travelling at 50mph.

Tim Alcock from LeaseVan said: “With prices continuing to soar, paying for fuel is a costly expense, especially for those reliant on their vehicles for business.

“There are ways to help keep fuel costs as low as possible, mainly by being more aware of driving habits and adapting to increase fuel efficiency.

“Most cars and vans now have built-in systems measuring miles per gallon, which is a great way to monitor how fuel is being used.

“Drivers can consume almost 15% less fuel by taking note of what their fuel consumption display is telling them.”

These are LeaseVan‘s ten top tips to increase fuel efficiency:

1. Save on weight

 The more weight in the vehicle, the more fuel will be used. If a certain set of tools aren’t needed, leave them at home.

2. Stick to the limit

The faster drivers travel, the more fuel is used. Driving at 70mph uses up to 9% more than at 60mph, and up to 15% more than at 50mph.

3. Maintain a steady speed

Unintentional dips in speed and sudden bursts of acceleration to keep pace take a toll on the tank. Cruise control is a driver’s best friend when on motorways helping to keep a constant speed.

4. Maintenance

Regular upkeep and maintenance of the vehicle means that all the systems will be working to their optimum standards, meaning they’re as efficient as possible. Checking tyre pressure regularly can improve efficiency as under-inflated tyres can use up to two per cent more fuel.

5. Keep rolling

It can seem inevitable to stop-start when in traffic, but slowly rolling along at a constant, low speed can help increase your driving efficiency. Try slowing down extra early when approaching traffic lights or a queue to avoid stopping completely. 

6. Accelerate gently

The harder the acceleration, the more fuel consumed. The smoother the drive, in terms of acceleration and braking, the less work the vehicle is going to do meaning less fuel will be used.

7. Be kind to the gears

Staying in one gear for too long can slash your efficiency. Many vehicles are now fitted with gear shift indicators, which makes it easier to know which gear you should be in and when to change up or down.

8. Use your air-con wisely

At low speeds, air-con can have a dramatic effect on reducing efficiency, instead try opening windows to get air through the vehicle.

9. Stay aerodynamic

Wind resistance increases fuel consumption. Keeping windows shut at high speeds, removing roof racks and ensuring everything fits inside the vehicle can help save money on fuel.

10. Drive a manual

According to the AA, automatics can use 10% to 15% more fuel than manuals.